CCT recently completed a formative evaluation of the Reading Companion, a web-based literacy initiative that uses voice recognition technology to help children and adults learn how to read.

Developed by IBM researchers working in partnership with schools and not-for-profit organizations, Reading Companion assists individuals as they learn to read by 'listening' and providing feedback, enabling emerging readers to practice reading and their English pronunciation as they acquire fundamental reading skills.

IBM asked CCT to conduct formative research into tool with emphasis on the types of supports needed to engage young readers.

Reading Companion is distributed for free through a grant program to public elementary schools (for children ages 5-7) and nonprofit organizations such as public libraries, community colleges, and agencies.